Something Nice

My stomach looked like a balloon when I was five. I could eat five bowls of rice when I was ten. When I graduated from the elementary school, I was only 129 cm tall. You can imagine how I looked. A perfect rolling ball, with just a slight push with your finger tip you could roll me anywhere. I was still healthy, you know children's metabolism run fast. Trust me I wanted to find a way to tie my stomach or at least tie my shoes, and curb my appetite badly. Did I make it? Sorry I didn't have enough horses to give me that kind of will power.

Food is my weakness. My mouth was not used to talk, it had only one purpose - how to get as much food as possible. I was very quiet when I was small. Do you know why? Because I found it was a good way to hook food. All my uncles wanted to cheer me up and get me to talk by luring me with bananas as if I were a monkey. My mom stored a lot of fruit in our fridge so that I wouldn't absorb too much starch and became a real elephant. That's how I fell in love with fruit.

When Chinese New Year came, my mom would buy a lot of candies because it was the tradition of her family. I alone would eat up all the candies before others laid their fingers on the jar. Candies became my 2nd favorite food. After the new year I had to beg my mom to buy candies. I was close to my big brother despite the fact how bully he was because I got rewards for running his errand, candies.

During Junior high, I had to peddle my bike to school. School was far, far away from my home. My mom was mean, she got me a very big old ugly bicycle. I had to stretch my legs very hard to touch the paddles, and I had to use a lot of energy to get the bike run fast. Miraculously I grew very fast like the bean tree in the Bean Stalk story, and I lost weight and shrank like a balloon does when it is stuck by a needle, too. Still I ate a lot. Sometimes my mom gave me money for lunch and snacks. I used most of it to buy food and ate it soon after I arrived at school. I had nothing to eat for lunch and kept an empty stomach for the whole afternoon. When riding back home after school, I would stop at the food stand and used the left money to get myself a pc. of bread or cake and a big cup of papaya milk. Pastries and papaya milk became my 3nd favorite fruit.

My forth favorite food is eggs. I ate all kinds of eggs; scrambled eggs, boiled eggs, fried eggs, salty eggs, steamed eggs, three-color eggs, thousand-year egg, braised eggs, etc. I could eat five or six eggs for a meal.

When I entered the college, the smell from the bakery after lunch was so luring that I had to buy two or three breads to eat even I already had had lunch. I gained about five kg. the 1st year and my face looked like a fat moon. No boys asked me out. The next year, I just ate bread for lunch. I had to dump some weight. A round moon is beautiful, but not a fat face.

Eating so many pastries, eggs and fat, I was examined high cholesterol when I was junior in the college. It didn't bother me. You might as well kill me if I had to give up my favorite food. But recently especially these two years, everybody is talking about healthy food, eating healthy, don't touch junk food. I feel like a rebel fighting the whole world. Well, I think I am addicted to junk food and it may not be possible for me to quit.

Anyhow, I started to wonder why I can still survive with junk food. The only explanation is that I eat a lot of fruit and vegetables and I exercise. Except all the junk food, I love fruit, my number one favorite, vegetables and exercise. Somehow they make up a little bit my bad eating habit.

You want to live longer? I think it's more practical to live happily with a smiley face and clearer mind. Fruit, vegetables and exercise is my advice. If I can't convince you, just remember fruit and exercise can never be wrong.

Trini

It's in My Blood

Ref. http://tw.image.search.yahoo.com/search/images?fr=yfp&ei=UTF-8&p=blood+type

There are four members in my family. All of us are blood type B. Every day we point at each other pushing our blood up to make our face bloody red and our head like a bomb on the brink of explosion. To stay away from a possible WWIII, I joined T/Ms. It really helped me excel, and I found the best in me. My T/Ms friends say that I am cheerful, energetic and passionate. In another words, I am noisy, showy and excitable.

Why do I act this way? The explanation lies in my blood. Blood type is what I am talking about and what we should do for a better interaction. A, AB, B & O. These simple four letters divide us into four big groups. They decide our personality. Maybe I have put it a little bit simple and there are some other factors included to make each one of us unique. Good or bad? It’s not up to us and our blood types stick to us the whole life that if you want to change your personality, it would like changing our parents or changing our blood! Can we? It's absolutely out of the question! The only solution is there are ways we can learn

Back to my personality, some characteristics are pleasant like optimistic, lively and flexible, and some are simply annoying. No matter how hard I try to oppress them sometimes, they would just jump out unexpectedly that ruins all the reputation I have gained over time like elegant, graceful and amiable, and return to the shallow and pushy woman I was.

Take a good look of how noisy, showy and excitable I can be. I’m noisy like a chatty bird that don't know when to stop; I am showy to prove I'm more confident, not shy anymore; excitable? I can fight just for a free cookie! Talking about food I really feel frustrated. Do you know that in general people of blood type B is crazy about food? I especially! Don't ever put food in front of me if you don't want me to enjoy it. If you pay attention, you will find me always standing by the food with my mouth full. I was humiliated all the time when I was small. My uncles always made fun of me using bananas to lure me to speak as if I were a monkey.

I believe some of you find these characteristics annoying because your blood type doesn't approve them. We can be friends, but probably not close friends. Some people just don't get along together because their blood types contradict each other. B and AB may drive each other nuts, they are the most incompatible types. The best solution for them is applying positive thinking and encouraging words. A and O are ideal for AB.

These two years I’ve used blood type for ref. to study my students. At the beginning of this semester, while getting to know my students I realized I was wrong about a lot of things that I was so sure of. For instance people with Blood type B is just a little bit more than blood type AB, in some classes, even less. "O" is the most popular blood type, then A. In a class "A" is even more
than "O". When two students kept fighting or dislike each other, I would check their blood type to see the possible explanation.

Today, the situation has changed for me. I no longer worry about my weakness. With friendly people like T/Ms, I can feel comfortable with my personality. Especially after I made some lady friends who are either type "O" or "B", I no longer feel helpless. Blood type O people are decisive, eloquent, generous, and humorous with a lot of more lovely features. All these features help blood type B people relax and make them feel at ease. With blood type compatible people like my lady friends, I can just be me. Every minute with them is a blessing. I enjoy a blast, a pleasant chat, a fun gathering and especially when they all share their food with me.

Knowing me knowing you is the best we can do. Knowing others blood type helps us interact with them. My family is happy now that I pick on them less and less. Whatever is in our blood, we can always enjoy it as long as we can simply adjust a little bit when necessary. Just tell me your blood type and let me deal with the rest! I’m blood type B. What’s yours?

Trini

My Very First Birthday Celebrated with Friends

It takes a long time to grow young. - Pablo Picasso
When I was young, I didn’t feel young, I was eager to grow older to be on my own. Maybe all children think this way. Now after my children became grown-ups, I gradually enjoyed my leisure life more and more and noticed a lot of things I overlooked before. I felt I was growing younger and younger and having my lady friends played an important role. How true it is that “Age is a matter of feeling, not of years” by Gerge William Curtis

This year, my lady friends insisted to celebrate my birthday though I tried hard to talk them out of it. I can’t explain why I didn’t feel like celebrating my birthday. Maybe I was trying to avoid the fact that I was one year older again? Or maybe I had been celebrated all my family members’ birthdays that I simply lost interest in celebrating mine?

A few days before my birthday Pamela brought it up again. All the goldies seemed determined to make it happen. What could I say? Well, thinking it from the other side, we got one more chance to get together while enjoying a nice meal. I better not disappoint them again.

Pamela booked a table at “糖朝” restaurant that serves Kontonese style food. I had tried the food there twice and loved it. DienSin is my most favorite food and they have a big variety of flavors for me to choose.

Kate, Gina, Irene, Lydia, Michelle and Pamela dressed up that night putting on their favorite clothes. Sherry couldn’t make it due to a T/Ms meeting. Linda was still on her long leave from goldies. Still, we had a blast. The restaurant is full of classic Chinese culture, the food was scrumptious, the waitress were professional, and the atmosphere at the restaurant was just right for us to make unavoidable chat noise and laughter. The only pity was that I forgot to bring my camera on this very exceptional day. I had to use my cell phone to take pictures which I must say not even close to satisfactory. Still they shows that everyone was joyous and smiling
happily.

We hanged on in the restaurant till the latest hour we could and were reluctant to leave. Upon saying good night to each other, I thanked all goldies from the bottom of my heart. This was the first time I celebrated my birthday with my lady friends, and it was truly a sweet and memorable treasure.

Trini

My Day

Do you believe in "a perfect day"? Have you ever experienced a perfect day? Today I finally felt it. When the day was half passed, I started to sense my light and cheerful heart. Everything went so smooth and pleasant that I couldn’t help but wonder, "can this be true and real? "

I was home late last night, strictly speaking, it was almost 1:00 a.m. when I arrived home. After a shower and replying to a few mails, I finally found my way to bed at 3:00 a.m. I prayed "Please no insomnia tonight". School opens on Monday, I desperately need to sleep well tonight and tomorrow night or I will suffer badly at my first day of class.
I knew I had it coming, I should live a more disciplined life. Why did I reply to those mails at such a late hour, why not do it after I sleep? You tell me!

When I woke up this morning, I felt quite refreshed. It was 9:30 a.m. Not bad, I had almost seven hours sleep! After washing, I started to think about the plan I made yesterday for the day. Go to school and finish changing my classroom. Go shopping for some fruit and food. After the impending typhoon fruit and food will definitely run short with price much higher. A blouse for the dance program, my dancing class is going to perform for the Moon Festival. Last week I went to school twice trying to finish moving, yet the teacher who was supposed to move first didn’t do anything and I could only move boxes that I packed to put them in a tiny area. Monday Aug. 29th is the last chance to have everything settled or how can I give classes?

Because of the advancing typhoon, the weather is cooler. We had some rain so I decided to use today, Sunday, to do the work. Before leaving home, I had a second thought. I said to myself, why not read an article or two to make this day more fulfilling. I did it, had a good lunch before I finally left home. When I walked in my new classroom, not surprisingly, I saw all the stuff belonging to that teacher was still there. Astonishingly I took it quite calm. There was nothing I could do except decide how I should classify and organize my stuff. A short while later, not surprisingly again, the teacher of the classroom arrived. Of course he would have to come today, or when else could he do the moving he should have done much sooner?

I tried to help him a little clearing up and moving out the stuff he didn’t need. Then I realized I should be doing my own job. Staying there would only make my schedule worse, so I left and went to shop fruit and food. I was not upset at all, on the contrary I was delighted to leave knowing that the teacher’s finally doing his job. It was raining and showing the signs of of the typhoon. I went to fruit market instead of supermarket. I don’t like to buy fruit in the supermarket, most of the fruit there is not fresh to me. As I expected, quite a lot of people tried to replenish their fridge. The market was crowded. All the vendors were trying to clear out their goods before the typhoon arrived so that it won’t get rotten and wasted. The vendor of every stand I visited was nice and polite. They took the initiative to offer me a better price without my asking. What further surprised me was that every vendor, male or female, I visited call me “Beauty”. What’s wrong? Do I look different? No, I didn’t even put any foundation except very light lipstick. I couldn’t believe my ears. This has never happened before. Yes, occasionally a vendor would say it when they wish to sell their goods easily. But definitely not like this, they seemed to say it cheerfully. I got more fruit and food than I need and I was happy because I bought them for a good price.

Then I went to the street full of clothes shops. Hey!! I got a perfect parking place without wasting any time! I didn’t exactly get the blouse style I really wanted. Well, I had no more time to shop and had to compromise. Then I found a pair of beautiful shoes that I like very much. There were on sale because they were the only size left, the right size for me. I took them though I felt a little bit guilty. Just when I thought I was done with shopping and ready to leave, I saw a belt that would go well with the skirt I planned to wear. I stopped and took it without a second thought. After I paid for the belt, the shop owner, an old man, kindly offered to get me a bigger bag so that I could carry my stuff nicely. When he couldn’t find the right one behind the counter, he took the trouble to go upstairs to find me a real good one. I didn’t want to cause him trouble, yet he insisted and said the word I had heard three times already today, “Beauty”. I could tell that he was truly kind and sincere. I was so touched and impressed. I took and bag and thank him. It seemed that luck did not want to stop knocking at my door, he gave me another belt saying it’s free, on the house. I must have heard it wrong. No, I didn’t. I knew it didn’t cost much, but still a generous gesture that had almost never happened to me.

With two hands full of bags containing the merchandise I liked, I happily walked to my car. I had a very relaxing and enjoyable day. Not only had I not a slight worry at all in my heart, but also I had everything done very smoothly and pleasantly. I arrived at my car, threw the bags in. Then I noticed the number of the parking place my car parked – “66” -- the luckiest number according to Chinese auspicious superstition.

What else can I say for today?

Trini

Sherry’s Penthouse

I used to be obsessed with space. Having bigger room to move around in. I even managed to live with all of the extra housework. After I moved into my current small apartment closer to my school, it took me quite a while to adjust myself to the limited space. Gradually I even grow into it. I realized that small is good, too. The time saved on housework is comforting. Less spending on everything makes us trim down our desire. Furthermore the area I live in not only has better living function, but also much better traffic.

Today after seeing Sherry invested apartment in downtown, I was further convinced that small can be an advantage. The apartment is practically a penthouse. With A professional’s touch, it looks cozy and classic. We unanimously agreed that it was a wise investment, and congratulated Sherry on her smart decision. Her penthouse is located in the central downtown, yet quiet and modern with a wonderful view.

Michelle, Kate, Lydia, Pamela and I were the five who made it to Sherry’s Penthouse. Sherry has a cabinet full of beers. We played a new kind of chess, cards while chatting. It was different from our usual gatherings, except that we had fun as always. We had quite some refreshments besides dinner. The special kind of refreshment was made and brought by Pamela, homemade cookies and brownie. They won over everyone’s stomach.

How time flew? Before we realized it, it was over midnight. Since most of the ladies had to go home, the slumber party originally proposed didn’t happen. Well, maybe next time when we have a right timing and more energy to do it.

I must thank Sherry for creating such an unexpected surprise and fun.

Trini

A Lion King's Birthday

Our birthdays are feathers in the broad wing of time. - Jean Paul Richter

Harry, a T/M, a great leader, a powerful man, and most importantly Lydia’s husband; celebrated his 60- year-old birthday last night. It was a very touching and successful birthday party. All the T/Ms from the Legacy T/Ms club, some special guests from the Galaxy T/Ms club, family friends, and Golden Ladies were all there to give their best wishes to Harry and bring excitement to the party.

Lydia, the dearest wife, spared no efforts in planning, organizing an unforgettable and superb Birthday for Harry. Sherry, our idea queen, offered input from time to time till the party was finally on. All the other goldies arrived a few hours in advance to help decorate and with displays. Even Kate’s daughter Angela and her friend came to help. But most importantly I believe was Lydia and Harry’s son and daughter-in-law, a handsome couple, were there to help and greet all the guests. I felt sorry that I couldn’t be there earlier due to my family gathering for my son’s new job.

Virginia our most admirable photographer made herself available especially to take wonderful pictures for Harry’s birthday. Goldies ad some extra special shots again. Can’t say thanks enough to her.

Before all the guests from T/Ms arrived, the refreshments were well set, the hall was well decorated and beautiful hostess Lydia was beautifully dressed and looked stunning. All the refreshments look so luring, yet I could only try a few due to my already-full stomach.

James from Legacy T/Ms Club was the mater/emcee for the party. His unique style and humor created an exciting and interactive atmosphere at the party. The sentimental PPT Lydia made touched everyone especially Harry. Goldies’ best wishes from the bottom of our heart were also shown by PPT. We performed a clogging dance that we had practiced for about a month to cheer Harry and all the guests. We slipped a few steps probably because of the limited and slippery dancing floor which told us more practice together was necessary.

Time flies especially when we are having fun. It was getting really late. We gave our best wishes one last time and said good night to the happy birthday couple. Next big event of the year will be Lydia’s birthday party. Harry said he is going to throw a big surprising party for Lydia. How surprising? Let’s wait and see.

Party pictures taken by Virginia:
https://picasaweb.google.com/vlee1009/110805Harry60#
Here are some words from goldies afterwards:
You made Harry a proud father and husband this evening! I really like the take away gifts (two big auspicious buns). It is very Chinese! It is very thoughtful! - Sherry, Lady LaLa

Dear Lady Cha Cha, Your honey praised you a lot when you were not with us. He loves the PowerPoint clips that you made by yourself. To be a hostess, it is really tough job making so much arrangement. It was a wonderful and enjoyable party that I ever attended. Thanks for the opportunity to enable to show to dance and to wild. Did you give your honey a special gift last night? Cha-Cha or Cha? Ha-Ha- – Irene, Lady HuaHua

昨晚妳真是讓Harry很感動哦!因為他說在你11月生日時也要給妳一個大驚喜的Party. 我們都玩得很盡興很開心.雙喜壽桃,白裡透紅,粉嫩粉嫩,更是讓人愛不釋手. 再次謝謝你與Harry. 祝福你們全家 喜樂! 平安! - Linda, Lady HaHa

August Birthday Star – Michelle, my belle

Among all the goldies, Michelle is the first one who celebrates birthday every year. It’s coincident and interesting to think that all the goldies were born in the second half of the year.

Michelle chose the restaurant “NASSAS” for her birthday gathering. The food they serve is just my kind of food. On that night, there was also a band to perform beginning at 9:30 p.m. Chatting plus a band, it must be great fun. I brought all the wigs that we are going to use at Harry’s birthday for every lady to try on and to add variety and more fun for the gathering.. Harry is Lydia’s husband and the past District 67Governor. Indeed the wigs created a fun session for photo purpose. As usual, Sherry posed at every possible corner to take exotic pictures. The rest of us were ignited to follow suit though not that wild. I guess we were the most noisy and exciting table in the restaurant.

The band stepped on the stage at 9:30 and about time to sing a birthday song, blow out the candles and cut the cake. I asked the band to sing the song “Michelle”. It was a pity that they didn’t know the song, but luckily they had the music notes and played it for us. What do you know! From that instant, the atmosphere further heated up and went wild. We got the privilege to pick songs for the band to sing for us, they even invited us to sing along. The gathering turned into a party! Most of the customers left, the front area was completely for us. We danced, too, of course.

Seeing Michelle so happy, I hoped it was the happiest birthday she has ever had. I’d like to give my best wishes here again to Michelle:

“Wish you all the best in life, and may all your dreams come true!”

Trini

Shall We Dance?

I like dancing, and I enjoy dancing. It's one of my favorite things. Then why after all these years I’m still in level one? There’s a good explanation. Learning all the dance steps and flowing grace requires time, and a compatible dancing partner is too hard to find. These make it more difficult for a woman like me who has a busy job and a family to attend to. Every time after a few lessons, I was forced to stop because of other obligations.

Why dance intrigues me? I love music, I love beautiful songs. When beautiful music is on, my heart and my body fly, they want to feel the rhythm. When I dance, my heart sings and I’m happy. Worries or pressure seem so far away. That’s why Whenever I saw people dance beautifully and gracefully, my heart is intrigued and my legs want to prance or shiver with excitement.

Can you imagine that I was awkward at dancing especially with ballet when I was small? My mom sent my sister and me to a dance class even though we could only live from hand to mouth. I don’t know if it was because my muscles developed slowly or because my sister was an excellent dancer that I felt frustrated compared with her. I disappointed my mom and quit the lessons.

Many years later after I entered the college, I found it was easy for me to pick up steps that students danced at that time. Dancing soothed me and helped me liberate myself. Yet I stopped going to parties later because I didn’t like the atmosphere very much and also because I met my boy friend who had two left legs.

Numerous years passed. Just when I was about to give up the hope of dancing, I met my lady friends who also like to dance. We motivate each other to explore the dance world. With Sherry and Linda’s coaching I even tried Japanese dance, the dance that I never even dreamed of doing. Among all of us Lydia is the best ball room dancer. Irene focuses on line- dance. Now it becomes routine for her to show us some new steps whenever we get together. Pamela arranged a few Jitterbug classes for us to learn from her husband. After all these pleasant experiences, I found it almost impossible for me to give up dancing.

But what about all the obstacles? In order to have more options, I began to practice the male part of leading the dance. Everybody says dancing lead is much more difficult than female part and I have to learn all over again. That is not entire true and I believe I can handle it. By dancing the male part, I can always find a partner because male dancers are welcome everywhere. After a few months practice I finally made a difference. At the housewarming party I, as the male dancer, tried my awkward steps with my lady friends.

Surprisingly my lady friends put up with me nicely, they even enjoyed my lead.
It built up my confidence. I shall keep pursuing my dancing dream. I take Lydia my role model. One day I can proudly say “Shall we dance? Or “May I have the next dance?”

Trini

My Housewarming Party

It’s hard to believe that I just had my housewarming party. I’ve moved several times in my life, never once felt excited about it. They were all for practical reasons and I moved with little notice. This time I couldn’t keep a low profile. My ladies friends were happy for me because I’m finally moving back close to town. Everyone was curious about my new apartment and new environment, so I held a housewarming party. It took me almost three months to finally get everything settled down. Three months of non-stop packing, planning, moving and unpacking. Finally it was time for me to relax a little bit.

We set the date more than a month head so that all the goldies can make it. Still, there was no guarantee everything would go our way. Michelle couldn’t fly back on the scheduled day from her business trip as she planned, She was going to miss the gathering. You see? Murphy’s Law! We felt very sorry when receiving her e-mail. Yet, my instinct told me that things might change at the last moment, it’s Murphy’s Law! What do you know? Michelle did work every possible way to fly home on Saturday to join us for the evening program. She missed the exciting Karaoke part, still we were all deeply touched and welcomed her with wide open arms.

Sherry, Irene, and Pamela arrived first. Lydia and Linda came second. When Kate, Gina and her friend from afar Vita arrived, we had finished lunch and moved to the Karaoke room. Everyone bought something good to eat though I reminded them not to. With good snacks, drinks and numerous songs, we almost blew the roof off.

Linda and Sherry had to leave before Michelle arrived for a wedding banquet. Sherry would return for the slumber party and see Michelle. Michelle arrived before six. We had another exciting chat with some new topics while having dinner. It’s about 10:30 p.m., nobody wanted to leave before Sherry returned from the banquet. When Sherry finally showed up, we had another blast laughing and taking photos.

Only Pamela and Sherry can stay overnight. Michelle having been away on business trip needed to be with her husband. Others had programs early next morning. So we called it a day.

Pamela and I walked Gina, Irene, Kate, Lydia, Michelle and Vita out. To our big surprise, we couldn’t find Lydia’s car. What happened? It was towed! How could that happen? It was a narrow alley next to our reception area. This had never happened before. It was my fault and I hoped my negligence didn’t make their husbands worry. It took us quite a long driving back and force to the tow station to finally had the car released. Luckily we had each other’s company to deal with it together. We even joked and laughed about it.

Sherry was home alone. Well, I knew it was perfectly alright with her as long as she has a book in hand.

When Pamela and I arrived home, it was midnight. We were still wild awake. After taking a shower we continued our chat and took some more photos before we hit the sack. Women!

I don’t know when we fell asleep. It doesn’t matter. We had a wonderful time. Pamela left shortly after we got up the next morning. Moses came to pick her up. Sherry and I kept spending our day together having breakfast, watching movies, taking a stroll on the oldest street of the town, enjoying the snacks sold by the street vendors and eateries until it was 5:00 p.m. Wow, how did all the time pass?

After sending Sherry off, I sighed, “I made it, I finally made it!’ It was an enjoyable party. Everybody seemed happy and excited. As for me? I’m going to have my new life at the new place. Hope my family loves it, too.

T/Ms meetings - Murphy's Law Is Everywhere

This blog hasn't been managed for some time. So why not put the meeting minutes I wrote for my club here.

............
Tonight was a night full of surprises, wonders and flexibility. Murphy’s law played tricks on our meeting. Yet, team work and T/Ms spirit prevailed, and we had another enjoyable meeting like always.

Surprises? Robert brought six or seven of his colleagues to the meeting. They really helped warm up the atmosphere. For the first time in many months we had four speakers and they all showed up and fulfilled their assignments.

Wonders? Quite a few meeting roles were open. Before the meeting, we had two assignments untaken. When the meeting started, GE hadn’t showed up because of her job. The attendance rate was a bit low. The club President Randolph went to get the agenda and meeting material from his office realizing that VPE Grace couldn’t come. It took him only seventeen Minutes, almost impossible during traffic hours, to get to the venue just in time to take over the opening given by acting President in time. Murphy tried.

Flexibility? Shortly before the meeting, all the meeting roles were finally filled up. Some members had to take two meeting roles. Debbie was asked to host the Table Topics Session besides being the Variety Session Master. Ray was both the Ah counter and the Vote counter. I myself, the GE took kind of three meeting roles, too, acting President, Language and General Evaluation. Murphy did it again.

The other important factors that made tonight’s meeting successful were:

1. A romantic theme “Romantic” generated interest and sharing from the audience. Carl and Randolph’s sharings were beautiful and touching. The 1st love was too good to forget; to be real romantic one has to do double what the beloved one expects.
2. Besides setting the beautiful theme of the meeting, TME Carl did a good preparation to ensure interesting introduction and smooth transition.
3. Variety session and Table topics masters Debby Ho did a wonderful job in creating laughter and
Threw questions related to daily lives to get both members and guests to comment on the topics.
4. Four manual speeches given by Marc Liang, Jamie Liu, Jo Shih and Larry Lee made tonight’s meeting truly educational and informative.
5. For senior members John Wen, Randolph Chiang, Mike yang and Choi Chang, give truly practical and helpful evaluations.

At last, I must say together we tied the bolts and nuts precisely to make the fruitful and enjoyable meeting possible no matter how hard Murphy had tried. By Trini Ding, DTM

The Royal Wedding

"Fairy tales are experienced by their hearers and readers, not as realistic, but as symbolic poetry." ~Max Luthi
The Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine/Kate Middleton was broadcast live around the world. Still probably over a million people gathered at Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace to witness the wedding of the century in person. Even I by myself watched the live and video coverage over and over again.

Picture source: news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo//110429/481/urn_publi...d49dbba2f/

Because of the time difference, the wedding ceremony took place our evening time and it was perfect for me to watch it on TV at home. The day before the wedding, I took it simply as a world event, nothing special. After the news clips were played repeatedly, it successfully aroused my curiosity and attention to the point that I left my TV on soon after I arrived home. After the live broadcast of the wedding, I continued surfing from one channel to another to watch the repeated news. I was addicted to it. Was I manipulated by the media?

I started to ponder on it. Why it made such impact on people around the world? What does it mean? How did it successfully draw the world's attention from other events? My interpretation on this Century Wedding is given from three perspectives; dream, fantasy and fairy tale.

It's like a beautiful dream or a fantasy comes true. All girls have their dream of meeting the love of their life who is both rich and handsome, and having a beautiful wedding, wearing the most beautiful gown. Boys dream of a beautiful and sweet girl. right? In reality, it happens to a very few people that possess just one or two of these elements. But it happens! So hold your dreams or whatever fantasy you have, it may be realized one day. Have hope, your dreams may come true.

Fairy tale - Among all those limited countries that still have their royal families to signify the glory of history, The Great Britain is the strongest, most powerful and most significant one. All the members of the royal family still receive a great attention from the world. Their weddings look sacred, holy and grandiose that there's no any other wedding no matter how luxurious can compare. The tear-jerking love stories of princes and princess exist in all fairy tales. The love story between Prince William and Kate was full of dramatic effect, too. In addition Prince William has shown the world his strength and softness besides his charisma, Kate Middleton represents confident and charming modern women. They are like match in heaven.

All in all, the Royal Wedding seems the most exciting and stimulating event at this time of trouble. My best wishes to the royal couple. Wish they live happily and peacefully ever after.

Trini

An Another Day of diverse delights

District 67 Spring Conference didn’t really end on Sunday, April 24th. There were three more speeches given by past International President Ms. Jana Barnhill in Taichung, Kaohsiung and Taipei respectively. It has become a tradition that every year after the Conference, the District arranges for the International speakers to stay a few more days and present additional speeches and workshops for the benefit of local Toastmasters. If I can I’d attend for at least one more eloquently delivered speech held in Taipei.

I was glad that I made it again this time. It was held at MOFA T/Ms Club at 3:00 P.M. The speech title was "Why communication is so important and relative to career diplomats" and it was aimed at speaking to present and future diplomats.

My last class finished at noon. After finishing school work, it was still early. So I planned to run some errands first. Yet the unbearable heat made driving in the sun quite a torture. I had to turn around and headed for MOFA directly. There was only two T/Ms sitting there when I stepped into the venue. Shortly before the program started, people rushed in. All of a sudden, the atmosphere became warm and exciting. Jana accompanied by District officers looked refreshed and stunning still despite her busy schedule over the past week.

I listened attentively while admiring Jana's spirit and passion. Through a forty minutes speech, she demonstrated fluency, eloquence, power and authority. We witnessed what a credited speaker is like. She skillfully linked T/Ms skills to the qualities diplomats need to develop and possess. I am a person with a short attention span and often set off to absent minded roaming during a long speech. Listening to her speech was so enjoyable and pleasant that my attention was fully captured throughout her speech. She was so right; for a good speech, no matter how many times we have listened to it, we can always perceive something new every time we hear it. I had to leave soon after the speech as my daughter was waiting outside for me. We had another program. When leaving the MOFA building, I signed, "D67 Spring Conference officially curtains down.”

Immediately we were off to visit the Taipei Flora Expo. It officially closed on Monday. Surprisingly for the rest of the week, teachers and volunteer workers were granted admittance to enjoy one final day there. I had been at the Flora Expo three times already. Each time I went, I saw a large number of changes. I believe that is the reason the number of visitors increased every day.
Before entering the Expo, we had dinner at a popular restaurant to get ready for a long walk. The food was exceptionally good and it energized us. This time we saw no crowd, no waiting lines. Still I was amazed there were so many visitors. Angela and I took all the time we had strolling in the garden and taking photos. The feelings were definitely different from before

To my surprise, I ran into a young teacher friend who I spent four summers with while studying in the States for my master’s degree. We took a photo together to record the moment.

I had dance class that night, and I planned to skip it. Seeing that I could catch the last 20 – 30 minutes of class to say hello, I asked Angela to accompany me. I surprised my classmates by arriving so late, shortly before the class was over. Yet they were very happy to see me and gave me a big welcome. Everything turned out perfect.

What a fulfilling day I thought! I was a little bit tired, yet was happy for the delight I had throughout the day..

Trini

Make Impact and Inspire

After fifteen years of T/Ms membership, I loose count of how many times I have attended the District 67 Spring Conference. Its benefits and value is definite, but I had to miss some. Time is always not enough. This time, I am glad that I made it because it revitalized my passion in T/Ms and I feel lucky that I’m still part of it.

Strange to say that whenever the thought of cutting my T/Ms activities came to me, something refreshing emerged and pulled me back. It’s not easy to stay active and passionate all the time for a senior member like me who has a busy job and so many other delights to pursue.

The 2011 District 67 Spring Conference was a great success. It was coordinated by three Divisions; Div. C under the leadership of William Lee, Div. H under the leadership of Tim Wang, and Div. J. under the leadership of Steven Chuang. Even if there were a few flaws which I didn’t pay attention to, they were definitely insignificant comparing to all the thoughtful arrangements and quality programs. It showed great team work. Just name a few that I witnessed and experienced:

1. The location was perfect; the building is an obvious landmark, the traffic is convenient for everyone.
2. The venue was spacious and easy to spot; the flags and reception area were right in front of us after entering the main gate or getting out of the elevators. The crowds of people were a clear sign of where you should head for.
3. Helpful and smiling student ambassadors were at every corner to guide us or answer our questions.
4. A thoughtfully arranged booth of T/Ms material was placed right opposite to the main hall. Interested T/Ms could get the material they need with a more favorable rate.
5. Comfortable resting area
6. Rich and scrumptious refreshments were plenty enough for everyone.
7. The session hosts skillfully created very cheerful and exciting atmosphere.
8. Experienced professional keynote speakers and Workshop trainers; Jana Barnhill, past International President, DTM, Mr. Keith Ostergard, Region 13 Director of TI presented highly inspiring speeches and Excellent workshops.
9. Remarkable and extremely competitive Table Topics and International Speech Contests captured every listener’s full attention. They simply took my breath away!
10. Touching appreciation closing ensured a perfect ending. It was the very moment that we the China T/Ms Club members felt especially proud of District 67 Governor Mike Yang, DTM, also a member of the club, who leads District 67 to soar to a new height.

What I enjoyed the most was the inspiring and informative speeches and workshops given by the past International President Jana Barnhill. Keith Ostergard was great, too, definitely. Yet while speaking on the stage Jana Barnhill, Seemingly a small exquisite lady, demonstrated incompatible strength and amazing tenderness at the same time that seem so contradictory yet harmoniously weaved together. Her inspiring speeches did inspire me and made great impact on me. She’s the exact role model for all of us especially female T/Ms. She also struck me awake that I should keep moving, practicing and improving. Stay passionate and positive. The journey of learning should never end. Along with all the T/Ms friends, goldies Sherry and Michelle were also there to ensure every minute was fruitful and exciting.

I was involved a little bit in the Conference especially being a small screw in the chorus. Persuaded by Sherry, we goldies except Pamela and Linda joined the chorus of 100 people to open the dinner party. It was not only to glorify the District 67 Spring Conference, but also congratulate the country on its 100 anniversary. It was a brand new and precious experience for me.

How wonderful it is that I am a member of T/Ms. Seeing it continue to grow and expand make me feel proud of it. Friends help friends succeed! How true it is!

Trini
https://picasaweb.google.com/taipeitmtrini/2011D67SpringConference?authkey=Gv1sRgCPf1lfqGqIqejQE# From Sherry Album

My Journey to Becoming a Distinguished T/M

Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Rome was built by improving itself each and every day. - Author unknown

I was invited by the World Mosaic T/Ms Club to deliver a DTM's ice breaker speech. Since I finished the script, I thought why not share it with more T/Ms? Hope by delivering the speech I can help persuade more T/Ms set attaining The Distinguised T/M recognition their goal.

Please lend me your ears.

“Rome wasn’t built in a day.” I’d like to say, “A DTM is not made in a day".
"Haste makes waste, slow and steady wins the race" may often be true, but may not be ideal for Toastmaster members who seek to improve effectively. Actually being overly casual in T/Ms may often leads to lack of improvement, loss of interest and ultimately resignation of membership.

Tonight I’m going to talk about my journey to becoming a Distinguished T/M. Why did I join T/Ms? How and how long did it take me to attain the DTM recognition? What I gained in T/Ms? What has kept attracting me to stay in this big family?

I used to listen to ICRT while driving to work and back home. One day in 1996 I heard the host say Toastmasters provided a good environment for people who would like to enhance their English speaking skills. I was not very concerned about leadership I was only interested in strengthening my English language capabilities. My children were growing up and they didn’t need my full time attention, my job was becoming stagnate and I felt like I was on a dead end road, I had the urge to improve and accomplish. I needed to make a change in my life and a breakthrough with my career. I summoned up my courage and made a few phone calls. I visited three Toastmaster meetings before I chose the China Club Toastmasters to join because of its quality meetings and friendly atmosphere.

At the first meetings I was a little mouse in the corner. I had never been an aggressive person, and this was the first social group I had joined. I didn’t know what coaches were for, and my quiet personality stopped me from asking. I was just attending meetings regularly as I needed the practice and training. I took whatever assignment given to me and I strove to do my best. Eight months passed, it was time for election of the new officer team. My regular attendance and responsible attitude received the club officers’ attention. I was recruited into the new club officer team. It changed my Toastmasters life drastically. Suddenly I was involved in the club affairs; regular officer meetings, frequent phone calls with my club members and more speaking opportunities. I took an officer role year after year. I made more and more Toastmaster friends, I became more open and more active. Receiving recognitions one after another was meant to happen according to T/Ms training program. My career soared, too. Three years after I joined T/Ms, I dared to take a higher position job as manager. It was all because of the confidence I built in T/Ms. Another three years later, I switched my sales job in business field to educational field and became a teacher. It was a family call. I made it with no sweat at all thanks to my T/Ms training.

How did I attain my DTM recognition? What am I doing? I simply followed the two tracks that T/Ms designed; communication and leadership tracks and executed them. IN 2004 after I finished my service as AC2 governor and High performance leadership, I got my DTM recognition. I said to myself enough office role for me because of my job. Yet approaches kept coming that I agreed to take Div. C Governor role three years later.

I’m a living example of how effectively and successfully T/Ms works for people. In addition to confidence, I made a lot of wonderful friends, I embrace challenges and I’m not a quiet mouse anymore. You may call me a chatting bird, DTM’s weakness. Actually it may work better and faster with you if you act a little more aggressive and active than I did. Right now the mentor system works much better, and more and practical officer trainings help new T/Ms get a better picture of how T/Ms works for us. In addition, there are a lot more advantages we can benefit from it like friendship, better job and promotion, even your Mr. or Ms. Right. too. How much we can benefit from T/Ms depends on how much work we do and efforts we make.

I haven’t given any speeches lately. I’ve become lazy as an old house cat. So I thank you for the little push today. Actually DTM should be another beginning for me. "When we stop improving, we stop being good." No, Rome wasn’t built in a day, Rome was built by improving itself each and every day. After reaching one peak, I must try a new one, after accomplishing one challenge, I must look for another. I have several pictures in my mind; a second DTM and probably District office again after I retire . I am sure I will stick to T/Ms as long as my health doesn’t fail me.

Trini Ding, DTM

國際演講會帶給我喜和樂

The biggest event "2011 Spring Conference" of District 67 Toastmasters International is around the corner. Grand T/Ms Club is in charge of the Journal of Spring Con. Sherry, being a popular T/M and a member of the club, was invited to write an article for the journal. Before we knew it, Sherry got all goldies involved in the article by asking all of us to contribute a paragraph to complete the article. In less than two days, we had it done. Here it goes:


To Golden Ladies Toastmasters with Love

人生的道路會在那裡轉彎，誰也無法預測！成為黃金女郎一族！是個偶然、也是個必然！近朱者赤、近墨者黑。黃金女郎個個金光閃閃、艷麗照人，讓我的生命更精彩、更多姿、更幸福！中華民國演講會的黃金女郎們，亦師、亦友，總是愛相隨、隨傳隨到，我愛妳們！

Golden ladies Toastmasters don’t have time growing old, but growing up in Toastmasters till the day we expire. ~Sherry Li 李向慈, ATM-B, Grand Toastmasters Club

Except family and office, Toastmasters provides me a place to release pressure and grow with fun. At home, I am a chatting wife; in office, I am a serious C.O.O. After joining Toastmasters, I became a happy and charming woman, who is a real me. Toastmasters are all well-trained evaluators. They are all good at praising and encouraging each other. I enjoy this advantage very much. Moreover, members who joined Toastmasters are all educated and studious. So, it’s a right way to make friends from Toastmasters. To me, one of the biggest harvests I have earned from being a Toastmaster is to have 7 Golden Fairies from Toastmasters as my sisters enjoying the vivid and beautiful life together.

除了家庭和職場，中華民國演講協會提供了我另一個地方，讓我可以釋放壓力，又可以快樂高興的成長。 在家裡，我是個嘮叨的老婆；在辦公室，我是個嚴肅的營運長。 參加演講會之後， 我變成一個快樂又有魅力的女人。這個才是真正的我啊！ 在演講會的會友都被訓練的成為很好的講評員。 大家都很會互相讚美和鼓勵。 這點我非常喜歡、也常陶醉其中。 另外，在演講會裡的會友，都是教育程度相當而且具有上進心的。 所以，這是一個交朋友的好地方。 對我來説，參加中華民國演講協會最大的收穫之一是我找到了黃金仙子作姊妹，大家一起享受多采多姿的美麗人生。~ Michelle Liu 劉清痕, ATM-B, Legacy Toastmasters Club 薪傳演講會

我的人生在接觸國際演講會和國劇後才像蓓蕾般逐漸綻放光輝。演講會成員的學習態度，優質會議，及熱心服務的精神令人感動。國劇演員對藝術的堅持也叫人動容。不論在哪裡遇見Toastmasters 的會員，就像在表演劇場遇到熟面孔ㄧ樣，馬上有共同的話題。演講和國劇同樣是表演藝術，均包括聲調、面部表情、眼神、肢體語言、故事性等等元素，只不過平劇的動作較為誇張。參與二者的活動對自我呈現有互補作用。 自參加演講會後，我學到的不僅是演講的技巧，更結交許多對平劇有興趣的朋友。 揪團ㄧ起欣賞國劇，表演結束後來杯咖啡，運用演講會講評技巧，每人提出賞後觀感，觀察力、審美力、及表現力都獲得進步，人生多麼美好啊。
Like a bud blossoms, my life has become rich and colorful since I joined Toastmasters and got involved in Chinese opera activities. The attitude of learning, the quality of the meetings and the spirit of service that Toastmasters have set a good example for me. The persistence of Chinese Opera performers also has touched my heart. Wherever I meet a Toastmaster, it’s like seeing a familiar face in the audience of Chinese Opera performance. Both making speeches and Chinese Opera are fascinating performance arts that require the same elements – story, vocal variety, eye contact, hand gestures, etc., but the body movements of Chinese opera is more exaggerated. I have met many Chinese Opera fans in the Toastmasters. We go to Chinese opera shows together in addition to regular TM meetings. The coffee time after the show is the highlight of the event. Everyone gives his/her opinions about the show by using the evaluation skills we learnt from the Toastmasters. Our observational, aesthetic, and presentation abilities are hence improved. What a wonderful life it is by participating in the Toastmasters and Chinese Opera!
~ Kate Hsu許蓓輝, Prestige T/Ms Club

說話技巧的進步，突破說英文的障礙以及結識傑出的朋友，讓我的生活更多彩多姿，這是我參加Toastmasters Club最大的收穫。我所參加的社團中(女企業家聯誼會、紳士協會、扶輪社與T/Ms Club等) T/Ms Club 是我的最愛。 因為我在這裡不但在語言及領導能力自我成長，更重要的是還交到一群好朋友-黃金女郎Golden Ladies。 我們不只是吃喝玩樂的好伙伴，更是互相學習的好對象。 黃金女郎的成員個個都是獨力性很強的現代女性，不同的個性及專長讓我們在相處時展現互補的效率。 而且身為一個Toastmaster,當然在聚會時分享T/Ms Magazine讀後心得是絕對是少不了的。 朋友們!加入中華民國國際演講協會Toastmasters International將是你一生中最正確的選擇。
~ Linda Tseng曾玉玲, Excellence T/Ms Club

個性不同特質不同的眾女子因Toastmasters 緣分而成為相知、相惜的好朋友及好姊妹。相同的是我們都有著一顆年輕、熱情的心及強烈的求知慾。 除了愛熱鬧、愛助人，我們也愛自己。有人說人生最幸福的事是能和心愛的人一起慢慢變老。雖說我們的願望是個笑話(在此賣個關子)，但是我們衷心的期盼大夥十年二十年後依然擁有健康的身體，一起讀Toastmasters雜誌，一起在Toastmasters大會台上跳舞唱歌。
~ Pamela Yang 楊克平, Galaxy Toastmasters Club

因為參加演講會而擴張了我的境界，像跳出了井底的小青蛙，世界變得又大又亮。 最讓我珍惜的是 Golden Ladies的友誼。 一群來自不同演講會的美女從每個月一次的美食讀書會開始而相知相惜；一起學踢踏舞、一起看戲、一起爬山、通宵歡笑的睡衣 party、出國旅行 ..... 。 姊妹們不但有許多共同的愛好，而且能夠互相欣賞進而彼此學習各個人的長處和才藝，我們的生活也因此更加多采多姿! I love Golden Ladies!
~ Lydia Lin林麗莉,青企台語 YMIC T/Ms Club

My toastmasters journal began to soar after I met my lady friends. After being a member of T/Ms for so many years, it was really a blast having them come into my life. Every thing we do, even having a simple cup of coffee is three times more enjoyable when we do it together. Likewise we can turn a simple reading into an enchanting program full of variety, learning, and enjoyment. All of us come from different clubs, amazing, isn’t it? Yet, it makes our getting together not always easy. Still when a good course comes, we’d all strive to take advantage of the opportunity. Time flies with the speed of light when we are together and I always look forward to our next gathering with special anticipation. It gives me great pleasure to say that next to my family, my lady friends are the only ones that always have the charm to cheer me up. ~ Trini Ding丁海華, DTM, The China T/Ms Club

Photos https://picasaweb.google.com/azenng/BridgeTaiwanStrait#5351504998046357490
Blogs: http://taipeitm.blogspot.com/
http://taipeitmtrini.blogspot.com/2011/04/blog-post.html

p.s. 黃金女郎訂於十月十日發行首張黃金老歌CD, 慶祝中華民國一百年國慶, 歡迎中華民
國演講會友預約訂購(每張預購價新台幣一百元)!
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A Warm Sunny Spring Break Gathering

Tomb Sweeping Day plus Children’s Day right after the weekend brought us a four-day holiday. So, it came to my mind that besides all of our family reunions, there may be a possibility for us lady friends to have fun together. Even if just for a couple of hours. I knew that it was just a wild shot due to the last minute notice, the long distance, and traffic problem to my new apartment. The whole idea came from Sherry’s proposal for an outing on April 9th to try out her plan-to-buy new camera. I could not make it on that day as I had accepted an invitation for Div. G Speech and Table Topics contest. When realizing that the outing was not going to take place, I thought some of us might be able to spare some time Saturday afternoon for a small gathering instead. Pamela would be on her business trip soon so there is no better time than now. Meanwhile, everyone would have the chance to get a clear idea of where I live.

What a pleasant surprise! Seven including me made it. Kate didn’t plan to attend at first as she already had two activities. Sweet and considerate Lydia convinced Kate to join us. Lydia also generously offered a ride for those who needed. Ladies came from different directions and arrived at different time. What I didn’t expect was the terrible traffic because of the Tomb Sweeping Day. It took Pamela who lives nearest to my home, more than one hour to arrive instead of 15 min. Still she was the 1st to arrive. Or strictly speaking, Sherry was the first to arrive, when I don’t know as she was having lunch with her husband before coming to meet us. When Pamela arrived, it was time for me to pick up Michelle and Irene at the MRT station. I was surprised by the heavy traffic jam even though I had heard it from Pamela a few minutes before. Fortunately, it was just a short distance that Michelle and Irene didn’t have to wait long. While waiting for Lydia, Kate, and Sherry, we four went for lunch and enjoyed a good chat while eating. Sherry, Lydia and Kate arrived at the same time. Seven, seven is definitely a good number. We seven had a very stimulatingly singing afternoon.

My plan was:
1. 12:45 – 1:15 A tour of the apartment buildings and its vicinity.
2. 1:15 – 15:00 Coffee break/lunch and chat
3. 15:00 - 17:00 Karaoke, sing and chat
4. 17:00 - 18:30 go for a walk on the trails.
5. 18:30 - dinner for those who can stay longer

So, we did item 1 and 2 in a reverse way. We strolled a little bit in the patio, sat in the reception room, and took some photos. Karaoke was a blast. We sang so loud that we almost blew off the roof, we danced so blissfully and ate to our limit that we got fully carried away.

Programs 4 and 5 were not fulfilled as Lydia had to visit her mom, Michelle had to play badminton, Kate had a Yuga class, and Pamela had to visit her father-in-law. We all called it a day so that a car pool could be arranged. I was happy that the gathering went very well. The next morning mails from goldies rushed in giving their reflection on the happy hours.

Lydia said, “Thank you Sherry for the happy memory with those well taken photos. They reminded me of my memory of the photos we took at Trini's old apartment last year (or two years ago?). You were the director that wanted to take a photo for 5 Goldies (Sherry, Trini, Irene, Gina and Lydia) jumping in the air at the same moment. We tried and tried, laughed to almost roll on the floor. It was crazy but unforgettable ....four silly YOUNG ladies wearing short skirts jumped and jumped till exhausted. Hope we could do it again after you get your LX5 and all 9 Goldies can jump up in the air at the same moment. Dear Trini, Thank you so much for a wonderful Sunday afternoon. Time ran too fast when getting together with good friends. It was too fun to say farewell. Hope we can have a longer gathering in your new house warming party.

Michelle said, “It's so happy to enjoy an afternoon with 7 ladies, including me, together yesterday. Thank you for bringing us this opportunity. As long as there is a gathering called by Golden Ladies, no matter when and where, it will be my first priority to join. I don't know how to express how exciting I am when getting with you girls every time. Thank you and all the girls. I have marked May 21 and 22 for another crazy slumber party.

Irene said, "It was an exceptionally fun afternoon and it's so great that we have another wonderful optional place to hold our future gatherings."

Kate, Sherry and Pamela similarly expressed the enjoyment they had, too.

Lydia said it for me. Yes, I would never forget that crazy night and most amusing hours. We can definitely experience it again. The good thing is that we will have the whole nature around us to get wild. The patio or the walking trails are excellent for photos. I can easily arrange a slumber party till the very late next day. Michelle, said what I always feel about our gathering. So lucky we have each other's company from time to time. Every one of our gathering is precious especially thinking that we are all so very busy with our work or lives. I was glad to see the happy smiles on Kate’s face. They look so great on her. The photos taken with Sherry's camera caught everyone's greatest smiles. Pamela has been always so helpful and supportive despite her busy schedule. Her input is always invaluable. I thank her from the bottom of my heart. I pray that she will be in Taiwan on May 21st and 22nd. I could tell retirement works on Irene very well. She looked especially refreshed and younger yesterday. I know it's not easy for her to have sleepovers. I hope she can apply her skills to talk your husband into having one night and one day alone without her. For Sherry, like everybody says, she is the honorable director. We count on her as always to create another colorful page of goldies' book and photo album. For Linda, Gina and Virginia, I hope all three can make it on May 21st so that we can have an all present gathering.

What we can do so far I can think of are:

1. Every one prepares two songs as Sherry suggested so that we can rehearse on that
day before we officially record the songs.
2. Every one has some dance steps to a song or music ready to teach other goldies.
3. A variety show, either games or activities are welcome.
4. Everyone brings her favorite pajamas.
5. We all go hiking the next afternoon.

I believe before the gathering comes all goldies especially Sherry, as our director, will keep giving input to make it another blast.
Trini

The 100th Birthday of the Republic of China

When Sherry proposed by mail that we goldies attend our Nation’s Flag Raising Ceremony at dawn of the 1st day of 2011, it took me a few second to type “yes”. It’s our country’s 100th Birthday. For such a grand event and glorious moment I’m definitely eager to pay my awe by making my presence at the Presidential Office. To attend the ceremony, we had to arrive at the Presidential Hall before 5:00 a.m. Taking the big crowd into consideration, we needed to get together at the closest spot before 4:30 a.m.

It happened that the Choir Lydia joined was going to give the Messiah Concert on New Year’s Eve. Half of the goldies could make it for the concert, Sherry thought going home after the concert and coming out again was double waste of time. We could actually stick together and save a lot of trouble of meeting again in the early morning. Kate’s home was brought up suggested for us to have a slumber party after the concert and a midnight snack at a very popular eatery in Kate’s vicinity. Kate opened her arms to welcome us. Again five of us could make it, but not the same five that went to the concert. When Sherry suggested an extra Countdown activity, all the others remained quiet. To make one more promise needed a higher spirit.

Plans are made to change. Lydia had to accompany her mom after the concert and miss the slumber party. Slumber Party at Kate’s home was cancelled at the last minute. Sherry was the only one among us made it to the New Year’s Eve Countdown at Taipei 101. I went to Pamela’s home instead so that we could accompany each other for the Flag-Raising Ceremony.

The four hours sleepover slipped in a blink. Details were given in my last chapter.
We arrived at the MRT Exit 5 on time. Sherry was already outside the Exit having fun at the roadside to some crazy thundering music. In a minute she showed up wrapping herself in a long warm coat and a blue souvenir scarf with the flag icon of R.O.C on it. Michelle arrived in time though she had a hard time getting a taxi. It’s not difficult to figure out, with so many people using the limited transportation and the crowds packed in the area, she was lucky to get a taxi. We four took a few photos while waiting for Lydia. She was not that lucky and had to give up getting a taxi and drive instead. When we five finally united, it was almost five o’clock.

We headed for the Plaza with an expecting and exciting mood. The closer we went to the plaza, the more crowed the streets were. The sky was still dark, yet the street lights led the way just like a bright day. Free flags were given at the street side. Everyone walked in the plaza with a flag in their hand. We were stopped right outside the rim, but our persistent plead prevailed and we were granted entry. What a relief!

This was the 2nd time I joined the ceremony and stood in such a big crowd waiting for dawn to come to salute to the flag of our country and sing our national anthem loud. The first time I brought my children to let them experience the glorious moment of our country. This time I came with my lady friends. The feelings were different, the crowd was much bigger, and my spirit was higher.

Shortly after five, The warm-up program began. With so many tall young men standing in front of me and the flat-styled hosts, I was a little bit impatient. I couldn’t even see the high-spirited marching given by army, navy and air force honor guards. The two big screens beside the platform at a far distance were totally blocked by the crowd. How I wished I had a ladder or a bench to step on. How wonderful it would have been if I could have grown taller. Still I was happy being there. At 6:30 a.m., It was finally time to raise the flag. When our National Anthem began to play, we sang along to the music, tears were rolling in my eyes. I said to myself,” we are all here to pay our respect and show our love to our country with all our heart wishing her prosperity and flourishing forever.

When the flag-raising was done, most people started to disperse. Some were still lingering there to enjoy following programs. 100 couples were wedded and certified by our President Ma right after the Ceremony. What a memorable and unforgettable day for them. We didn’t stay for the rest of the programs. We came to witness the glorious moment of our country, and that’s good enough. Besides we ladies were really tired and exhausted.

While walking out of the plaza, we chatted and took a few more pictures. Then all of a sudden Michelle, Pamela and I realized Sherry and Lydia were missing. We were talking to each other, weren’t we? We took turns to talk to the ones on our right, then to our left, didn’t we? Then how could they disappear in short few seconds? We three did try every possible way sticking out our necks, standing on our toes, screaming out their names, and looking for Sherry’s red cap. There was just no sight of them. We were completely at a loss.

I tried to call them, yet couldn’t get any signal. After a few min. we decided to head for MRT exit 5 where we gathered before going for the Ceremony. But we stopped at the intersection next to the MRT exit 5 for a while to try our luck. After calling and messaging numerous times, we finally got though. They were at MRT exit 5. We five ladies did think alike.

We were all hungry. We walked quite a distance trying to buy typical Chinese breakfast. Without surprise, an endless winding line was seen from both famous eaters. We had no more strength to fight for breakfast. There were hundreds of thousands at the Ceremony. What was the first thing they would do after the Ceremony? Have breakfast, of course. We left. Maybe we should just find our breakfast near our home. So we ladies had to call it a day for our great adventure on the 1st day of our country’s centenary. Besides Michelle didn’t feel quite well because of insufficient sleep. Pamela and I bought our yummy breakfast at an eater near the parking building where my car was parked. I was starving and ate like a horse did.

I didn’t go to bed after I got home. I still had some work to do and a program with my children. At around 5:00 p.m., when I lost all my strength and energ, I crawled to my bed and fell asleep immediately. I slept almost 14 hours till late morning the next day. Though I woke up twice, I lied back and kept sleeping. It was the first time ever.

I’m especially refreshed and recharged. The Flag-raising Ceremony brought a good start of the new year for me!

Trini

My First Sleepover on New Year’s Eve 2011

The very first thing I did for New Year’s Eve 2011 was a sleepover at my friend’s home. Pamela had joked about inviting me to sleep at her home every time I dropped her off late at night. It was funny thinking that the special situation came all of a sudden for me to accept her invitation on New Year’s Eve.

Irene, Michelle, Pamela and Sherry went to the Messiah Concert given by the Choir Lydia joined. Though I knew how enjoyable the concert would be, I had to miss it due to my family gathering on New Year’s Eve. I was supposed to join them after the concert at Kate’s home for a slumber party but unfortunately the slumber party was canceled. Pamela was facing a dilemma. She had to manage by herself to leave home alone and very early in the morning for the Flag-raising Ceremony.

To give Pamela support and keep her spirits up, I accepted her suggestion of a sleepover at her home so that we could accompany each other to the Flag-Raising Ceremony. We sat in her warm and classic living room watching the Countdown to 2011 on TV. It was truly awe-inspiring seeing both the grand celebration show and fireworks at TaJia Riverside Park area and fireworks at Taipei 101. The performers either dancing, singing or drumming with their bare feet in the cold water under the chilly weather deserved our big salute. The fireworks, dazzling and sparkling, at Taipei 101 along with the same glorious ones at the Tajia Riverside Park of Taipei Int. Flower Exp and those from satellite buildings brighten the sky. The display lasted for several minutes and was simply amazing and awe-inspiring to watch. The cost must have been huge, all for the biggest event - 100th Birthday. We hugged and wished each other a Happy New Year!

Around 1:00 a.m. we went to bed expecting two hours sleep. I tossed and turned for a long while, then finally fell asleep. When the alarm rang, I had to use all my strength to drag my sleepy body out of the bed. But after washing up, I was wide awake and full of good spirit. At exact 3:30 A.M. we left Pamela’s home and headed for the MRT station exit 5 to meet Lydia, Michelle, and Sherry. There, we walked together toward the Presidential Office plaza. Pamela and I quacked all the way to the MRT. We made it, we actually made it, staying up almost all night and getting up early for the Flag-raising Ceremony!

Trinity